Kayvon Thibodeaux makes bold statement at Oregon pro day

Kayvon Thibodeaux is one of the most scrutinized prospects in the 2022 NFL Draft class, but none of that scrutiny has affected the defensive lineman’s confidence in himself.

Thibodeaux took part in Oregon’s pro day on Friday, marking his final predraft appearance in front of NFL scouts. The showcase comes amid rumors that Thibodeaux is falling on draft boards due to poor interviews and questions about work ethic.

Based on his comments after his workout, Thibodeaux’s confidence is undented. The former Oregon star was asked about the most ridiculous thing he’d heard about himself in the run-up to the draft. His response spoke volumes.

“The most ridiculous thing I’ve heard is that I’m not the best player in this draft,” Thibodeaux told reporters.

Few draft boards, if any, have Thibodeaux atop them, but that clearly will not be changing his opinion. He has been defiant in the face of skepticism all throughout the process. Whether that helps him remains to be seen, and where he ultimately lands in the draft will tell us a lot about how big the concerns actually are.